Agutayan island watch tower inaugurated
the media.
The watchtower is a two-story structure with a total floor area of about 84 sq.m. It has an observation deck equipped with a solar-powered LED lighting system.
STEAG Corporate Information Officer Jerome Soldevilla said the project cost of million was taken out of the Misamis Oriental provincial government’s share in a social fund that accrues from the electricity sales of energy-firm STEAG, pursuant to ER 1-94 of the Department of Energy (DOE).
A sandbar surrounded by green waters teeming with marine life, Agutayan Island is one of the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Misamis Oriental, with approximately 5,000 square meters of white sand that sits on a 4.5-hectare marine sanctuary, providing a favorable breeding ground for endangered marine species.
Emano described Agutayan Island as essential for the attainment of a healthy balance of marine biodiversity for the entire expanse of the Macajalar Bay and considered as one of the priorities of the provincial government’s eco-tourism development programs.
Emano said the island's surrounding was home to several giant clams and other endangered marine species.
Goerlich said the Agutayan Watch Tower project was "an affirmation of a vibrant partnership between the government and the private sector, geared towards attaining a more balanced development in the Macajalar Bay area."
Goerlich said: "It reaffirms the company’s commitment to responsible business practices, at the same time supporting efforts in community development and environmental conservation."